정들다

§ What does it mean and when do people use it?

The Korean verb 정들다 (jeongdeulda) means 'to grow fond of' or 'to become emotionally attached to' someone or something. It describes the process of developing affection, warmth, or a sense of attachment over time. It's not about falling in love instantly, but rather a gradual development of positive feelings.

You'll hear and use 정들다 in many everyday situations. Think about when you've spent a lot of time with a pet, a place, or even a particular object. Over time, you start to feel a connection to it. That's 정들다 in action.

DEFINITION

To grow fond of someone or something; to develop an emotional attachment or affection for something or someone over time.

Let's look at some common scenarios where 정들다 is used:

• People: This is probably the most frequent use. You might 정들다 with a new friend, a coworker, or even a classmate after spending a lot of time together. It's about building a bond.
• Places: Have you ever moved to a new city or started a new job in a new building? At first, it might feel unfamiliar, but over time, you can 정들다 to the place, feeling comfortable and a sense of belonging.
• Objects/Pets: Many people 정들다 to their pets, of course! But you can also 정들다 to a favorite mug, an old car, or a piece of furniture that has sentimental value. It's about the emotional connection you form.
• Habits/Routines: Less common, but you could even say you've 정들다 to a certain routine or a habit, especially if it brings comfort or familiarity.

The key idea behind 정들다 is the passage of time and the gradual development of feelings. It implies a sense of familiarity and a positive emotional investment.

Translation hint: "I've grown fond of my colleagues while working at the new company." (Here, the colleagues are the object of affection.)

Translation hint: "Having lived here for a long time, I've grown fond of this neighborhood." (The neighborhood is the place one has become attached to.)

It's important to differentiate 정들다 from falling in love (사랑에 빠지다). While 정들다 can be a precursor to deeper romantic feelings, it's generally about a more general, warm affection rather than intense romantic love. It's more about comfort, familiarity, and a sense of connection.

Another related concept is 'missing' someone or something when they are gone. When you've 정들다 to someone, you'll naturally miss them when they're not around. This shows the depth of the emotional connection formed through 정들다.

Translation hint: "It's a pity because we've grown fond of each other and now we have to part ways." (Expressing sadness at separation after forming an attachment.)

So, when you want to express that you've developed a warm, positive emotional connection to someone or something over time, 정들다 is the perfect Korean verb to use. It encapsulates that feeling of gradual attachment and familiarity.